Music Studio G7 Deluxe

Studio 7 deLuxe is actually two separate pieces of software: Magix MIDI Studio and Magix Audio Studio. One's a powerful MIDI (Musical Instrument Digital Interface) sequencer, the other a multitrack hard disk recording and editing program. And while this software is perfect for people just starting out in home recording, be warned: This is no toy.

Installation is a snap, but you will need to know what type of sound card is in your PC. Also, to take full advantage of MIDI Studio's features, you need to have an internal or external MIDI interface as well. Learning the ins and outs of how it all works can try your patience. The user interface works, but is not perfect. This, compounded by the fact that there is no detailed, printed manual of all the features--just a PDF version in the software--makes using it difficult at first. What is included is a book of tutorials taking you step by step through some of the more important features. After completing just a few of these tutorials you realize just what Studio 7 deLuxe is capable of accomplishing.

MIDI Studio allows you to play back up to 2,000 MIDI and 48 audio tracks at once. Six virtual instruments are included for laying down bass, piano, choruses, and ensembles. You can even print out your creations in traditional notation.

Audio Studio gives you a live-input, 64-channel mixer to tweak each track with real-time effects. The recording, editing, and mastering features worked perfectly, and the combination of adjustments you can make to everything is practically infinite. Plus, the package includes a CD-ROM of 3,000 MIDI loops and samples, adding more to the value.

Magix Music Studio 7 deLuxe is truly a powerful, professional, and inexpensive sound studio for your PC. If you're patient and willing to take the time to learn the software, the creative possibilities are limitless. --Joshua Goldman